Month: April 2018

[Egg Hunt Hint!] 9 Unique Burger and Pasta Dishes You Can’t Miss

Post author By Rachel Ho
Post date April 30, 2018
1 Comment on [Egg Hunt Hint!] 9 Unique Burger and Pasta Dishes You Can’t Miss

Think you know your pasta and burgers? Well, think again. In this fast-paced, ever-evolving food scene, restaurateurs and chefs may feel the need to change things up, and give these classics a new lease on life. Sometimes they fall flat. The ones on our list don’t.

1. Tom Yum Seafood Pasta from 49 Seats

One of Singapore’s worst kept secrets, 49 Seats was probably the first to make tom yum pasta before it became more ubiquitous. So how do you know they are OG? Request a spiciness level of 49, and see if you can take the heat. The pasta has the texture and creaminess of a carbonara, but the intensity is 100% Thai.

Find it at 176 Orchard Road, #01-49, The Centrepoint, Singapore 238843
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

2. Zucca Fettucini or Broccolini Pesto from Original Sin

These pastas are good for your waistline — everything is vegetarian. (No worries, they are tasty.) We like the Zucchini Pasta, served with a creamy pumpkin sauce, carrots, baby spinach, walnuts and fragrant sage. But when we are feeling edgy, we get the Broccolini Pasta. Apart from the tangy sun-dried tomatoes-and-chilli combination, it is flamed with Absolut Vodka in a pink sauce. Sublime.

Find it at 43 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-62, Holland Village Chip Bee Gardens, Singapore 278115
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

3. “Bak Chor Mee” from Labyrinth

It sure looks like one of Singapore’s best noodle dishes but chef Li Guang conjures up an edible illusion to delight the senses. Thin slices of squid, infused with saffron, make up the egg noodles, while the fish cake slices are made from fresh Hokkaido scallops. Get the tasting menu and try guessing what the rest of the dishes are made of.

Find it at 8 Raffles Avenue, #02-23, Esplanade Mall, Singapore 039802
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

4. Buah Keluak Noodle by National Kitchen by Violet Oon

Cr: Eatbook.sg

The exotic lure of the buah keluak, a poisonous fruit that yields aromatic ‘black gold’ when prepared properly, takes centre stage in this dish. Each spaghetti strand is coated with a paste reminiscent of squid ink, but comprising chillis, prawns, and coconut milk, not to mention buah keluak itself. It’s a wonderful way to end a meal of Peranakan favourites.

Find it at 1 St Andrews Road, #02-01, Singapore 178957
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

5. Cereal Prawn Pasta from Atlas Coffeehouse

This fusion dish is for the ‘zichar’ lovers up for an adventure, where a plump tiger prawn, coated in cereal batter, sits atop a mound of Aglio Olio-esque spaghetti. There’s enough garlic and chilli padi to convince you it’s a heartland favourite, but bite into a mouthful of cereal-coated pasta, and you know you’ve got something special before you.

Find it at 6 Duke’s Road, Singapore 268886
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

**6. Salmon Mentaiko Bao or Chilli Crab Bao from Bao Makers x Butler’s Steakbar**

Cr: Marchh.com

Bao Makers takes the best part of the beloved Kong Bak Bao (braised pork belly bun) — the fresh, steamed bun that smells live heaven — and gives it a modern-day twist with a variety of flavours. The salmon mentaiko and chilli crab flavours are among their most popular: we love the indulgence of the former and the sweet kick from the latter.

Find it at 4 Jiak Chuan Road, Singapore 089261
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

7. Mac and Cheese Burger from The Beast

There’s plenty of heart — and calories — in this burger. The buns are made with the Southern classic that is mac and cheese, hand-shaped and fried with breadcrumbs till it turns a golden-brown. It’s a heart attack-inducing accompaniment for the juicy beef patty slathered in barbecue sauce, but it’s so good we’d do it all over again.

Find it at 17 Jalan Klapa Singapore 199329
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

8. Swordfish Burger or Bleu Cheese Burger from The Market Grill

You might not think that fish could taste so hearty, but get the Swordfish Burger here and live in ecstasy for the next 20 minutes. The fillet is grilled and paired with herbed mayo, mango salsa, spices and served on a sesame bun. The thick slab of fish meat has heft, and you go away feeling you are indulging in the rich goodness befitting of an oily beef burger. We also like the Bleu Cheese Burger, where the beef patty comes with salty bleu cheese and a sweet burnt onion marmalade and bacon, served in between a walnut raisin bun.

Find it at 208 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068642
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

9. Pulled Pork Burger or Prime Beef Burger with Foie Gras from Two Blur Guys

This unassuming joint might be called Two Blur Guys, but the chefs sure know what they are doing when it comes to burgers. The Pulled Pork Burger is a generous portion of shredded, slow-cooked pork between toasted buns, dripping with cheese. It’s a messy sight, but sure to be your tummy’s delight. They also do their Prime Beef Burgers well, but we’d up the ante and get the one with foie gras.

Find it at 1 Tras Link, #01-13, Orchid Hotel, Singapore 078867
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Are you ready for another round of promo code hunting? Get the latest version of the Chope app ready on your mobile phone because you’re going to need it: look out for the Mother’s Day Guide on the app and hunt for Gold Eggs this week. A little head’s up – all the eggs released this week are 400 Chope-Dollars each!

Tags Burgers, Pizza, Singapore, unique

Links We Love Singapore

Weekend Reads: 17 – 29 April

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date April 27, 2018
No Comments on Weekend Reads: 17 – 29 April

Celebrate the last weekend of April in style, with a glass of wine and a rosé marshmallow. Have a bit of chocolate too – it’s good for your health. We’ve also got to ask: are you Team Ramsay or Team Bourdain when it comes to a vegan diet?

The trailer for Crazy Rich Asians has been making its rounds on the internet, but can you recognise any of the Singapore restaurants featured in the trailer?

Last week we talked about Gordon Ramsay’s vegan diet, and this week we’re looking at Anthony Bourdain’s opinions on the Impossible Burger.

Cr: bustle.com

The world is on a rosé craze this summer, and it just got better with these rosé-infused marshmallows, perfect for roasting over a fire.

And have you heard about the ice cream sandwiches that KFC Japan are selling?

Cr: elitedaily.com

Thanks to Starbucks, you can now get foam on top of all your coffees, even cold ones.

If you can’t get enough of the crispy, cheesy satisfaction that is pizza, then this pizza museum is for you!

Pizza may not be your thing, but what about fries? Martin Zwerts, hugely popular in the Netherlands, is opening a flagship fry shop in Singapore.

Cr: inpathybulletin.com

Dark chocolate is good for you, but don’t take it from us. Take it from the scientists who published a paper about it!

Tags Chocolate, Pizza, Rose Marshmallows, Singapore, Starbucks, Weekend Reads

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

10 Elegant Restaurants with Business Lunch Sets Under $50

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date April 26, 2018
No Comments on 10 Elegant Restaurants with Business Lunch Sets Under $50

Business lunches: it’s where deals are made and partnerships are forged, while appetites are satiated. Ideally, service should be attentive, food should be spot-on, and the restaurant should be as accommodating as possible. But let’s face it, not all of us can afford to host our clients regularly in a MICHELIN starred restaurant.

Fret not as we’ve identified ten establishments with great ambiences that serve quality nosh. The best part: they’ll only cost you a crisp $50 bill. Some of these options might work out to be slightly over $50 after factoring in service charge and GST. But hey, a fantastic lunch never fails to elevate our moods. What’s more, it might just be the sweetener to close that deal you’ve been waiting for.

ATLAS

Cr: robbreport.com.sg

Forming the heart of Parkview Square, ATLAS is a celebration of the 1920’s rich culinary and beverage traditions. Think of ATLAS as the place where Bruce Wayne (aka Batman) would meet clients ‒ if he ever visited Singapore in his fictional universe that is. The ATLAS Lunch (two courses at $38++ and three courses at $48++) is a showcase of extraordinary European cuisine. It is created by the talented Executive Chef Daniele Sperindio, who honed his craft in Michelin-starred kitchens all over the globe. End a celebratory meal with an elegant European cocktail, or take your pick from one of Asia’s finest collections of gin, spirits, and champagnes sourced from around the world.

Find it at 600 North Bridge Road, Parkview Square, Singapore 188778.
Click here for more information on ATLAS.

The Black Swan

Another establishment that borrows from the Art Deco aesthetic is The Black Swan, which offers chophouse classics paired with a wine list ‒ comprising labels from unexpected locations, such as the Canary Islands, Lebanon, Syria, and Greece ‒ that would pique the interest of any discerning wine lover (read: a great way to get into the good books of a client with a penchant for wine). Go for the two-course ($39++) or three-course ($45++) set lunch and choose from favourites like The Black Swan Burger or the Steak & Frites ($8 supplement). Impress your pickier client in the private room: a hidden, underground dining room for no more than twelve persons.

Find it at 19 Cecil Street, Singapore 049704.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Fat Cow

Cr: rockabitebaby.com

For your clients who love all things Japanese and have a healthy appreciation of quality wagyu beef, Fat Cow is a Japanese steakhouse which promises an experience like no other. The restaurant’s overall design is a contemporary take on wabi-sabi, the art of finding beauty in the simple and the modest. The Set Lunch menu mirrors this aesthetic and features simple dishes, which are executed beautifully. The most notable of them is the Fat Cow Donburi (charcoal-grilled wagyu beef with onsen egg and shredded leeks, over rice) and comes with a salad, chawanmushi, miso soup, and dessert.

Find it at 1 Orchard Blvd, #01-01, Camden Medical Centre, Singapore 248649
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

The Halia at Singapore Botanic Gardens

Situated in the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the Singapore Botanic Gardens, The Halia (Malay for ginger) is an inviting space with lush foliage, wood-carved tables, and open verandas. The ambience of the establishment complements the carefully curated European-Asian menu, which features specialties like the Singapore-Style Chilli Crab Spaghettini, and is perfect for foreign clients seeking a taste of Singapore. Besides the Weekday Set Lunch (two courses at $28++; three courses at $34++), a Communal Menu (serves four or six) is also available if you’re hosting a large group. For those with Muslim clients or colleagues, you’ll be happy to know that The Halia is Halal-certified.

Find it at 1 Cluny Road, Ginger Garden, Botanic Gardens, Singapore 259569
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Manhattan

We’re cheating a little with this one: Although technically not a place for lunch, Manhattan is the perfect place to go to after closing the biggest business deal of your life. Manhattan is an upscale hotel bar, awarded #1 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars and #7 in the World’s Best Bars. It reminds us of Old World opulence, New York glamour, and celebrity-studded party scenes. If you make it for Violet Hour (weekdays, 5 to 7pm), you can enjoy a complimentary warm cheese sandwich with your tipple of choice, while you bask in the glow of the sunset and your most recent corporate success.

Find it at 1 Cuscaden Road, Level 2, The Regent Singapore, Singapore 249715
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Venue by Sebastian

Cr: lifestyleasia.com

Many a business lunches have been hosted at the now-defunct Restaurant Ember, where Chef-Owner Sebastian Ng served classic French-style cooking with an Asian touch. After taking a three-year break, he is back with Venue by Sebastian, which offers a more casual dining experience. The dining hall is minimal and contemporary, while the communal style light wood tables encourage conversation. The lunch menu is divided into five courses and is perfect for sharing. For those looking for a quick catch-up or a business pitch, they offer an Early Lunch Set from 11.15am to 12.30pm (ranges from $15++ to $19++), which comes with a side of fries, salad, and drink of the day.

Find it at Downtown Gallery, #01-02, 6A Shenton Way, Singapore 068815.
Click here for more information on Venue by Sebastian.

The White Rabbit

Housed in a beautiful, restored chapel, The White Rabbit offers an epicurean escape amidst Dempsey’s verdant surroundings. The dining room features white buttressed ceilings, stained glass windows, intricate wrought-iron window grills, and stunning stained glass windows, all of which will make for the most memorable business lunch for you and your guests. Equally unforgettable are Head Chef Benjamin Tan’s perfectly executed, European dishes infused with Asian flavours. The two-course set lunch costs $38++, while the three-course option is $42++.

Find it at 39C Harding Road, Singapore 249541.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Wild Rocket

Cr: cntraveler.com

Wild Rocket is a tranquil space with a decidedly Japanese aesthetic (think: traditional Japanese tea room), which serves Modern Singaporean cuisine inspired by Lawyer-turned-Chef Willin Low’s travels, childhood in Singapore, and love for hawker food. The Set Lunch starts at an agreeable $38++ for four courses and $48++ for five courses. To truly experience Chef Low’s ingenuity, opt for the omakase menu to sample signatures like his laksa pesto creations and Iberico pork char siew.

Find it at 10A Upper Wilkie Road, Singapore 228119
Click here for more information on Wild Rocket.

Xin Divine

Dressed in soothing blue and white, the Xin Divine dining room is reminiscent of delicate Kangxi porcelain. The four-course Executive Lunch Menu ($48++) starts with an earthy Porcini Mushroom Broth or the Sichuan Style Tortellini. We highly recommend the latter, which consists of two pieces of tortellini stuffed with minced Kurobuta and chives. It is served in a piquant broth of Sichuan peppercorns, Zhejiang vinegar, and ginger. An absolutely divine start to the meal.

Find it at 10 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089594
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Zafferano

Possibly the priciest entrant in our list, Zafferano is a beautiful Italian restaurant, which offers a priceless view of the Marina Bay skyline. Read: the perfect backdrop to a multi-million dollar deal. The set lunch changes regularly to reflect the seasonality of ingredients. It costs $42++ for two courses, and $52++ for three courses (yes, we know that it’s above our $50 limit but the view is really something else!). Insider tip: to celebrate Administrative Professional Week, Zafferano is offering an exclusive three-course set meal. Curated by Head Chef Emanuele Faggi ($35++), it is available from 23 to 27 Apr 18 (quote “Bosses Treat” when making your reservation!).

Find it at Ocean Financial Centre, Level 43, 10 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049315.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Bars, Budget, Business Lunch, Classy, Sophisticated

Features Restaurants Singapore Singapore

Get Comfy with Korea’s Ultimate Comfort Food at SBCD Korean Tofu House

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date April 25, 2018
1 Comment on Get Comfy with Korea’s Ultimate Comfort Food at SBCD Korean Tofu House

The obsession with Korean culture doesn’t seem to be dying down anytime soon. Whether it’s fried chicken or K-BBQ, Singaporeans are all head-over-heels for Korean food.

However, if you’re looking for a healthier and more authentic option, then head down to SBCD Korean Tofu House for a generous, steaming bowl of soondubu stew. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of soft, silky tofu that’s unlike any other tofu we’ve had before.

Every morning, the head chef at SBCD makes the tofu from scratch – a lengthy process involving immense amounts of patience and care – to ensure we get that magical jiggly softness. The chef has to soak the soya beans overnight, then grind them into a fine powder. He then cooks the mixture over a gentle flame, stirring several times every hour. After the tofu cools and sets, it’s cooked in the stew and goes straight into your belly.

Soondubu translates to “soft tofu”, though the word “soft” doesn’t even begin to describe its unique texture. The delicate tofu is silky-smooth and almost custardy, melting and breaking apart once it goes into your mouth. You’ll have to slurp instead of chew the pillowy chunks because yes, they really are that soft.

SBCD Korean Tofu House is the only Korean restaurant in Singapore specialising in soondubu stew. They’re dedicated to giving everyone what Koreans call a “complete meal”, which must include rice, soup, and several sides. You’ll get a bowl of hot stone rice and a couple of side dishes with every order of stew, a filling and heart-warming combo that guarantees satisfaction in every bite.

Pro tip: instead of eating it straight from the hot stone bowl, scoop most of it out into a separate bowl, leaving the bits that stick to the sides of the hot stone. Then pour some hot tea (provided for free at every table) into the hot stone bowl, and cover it up until you’re done eating. You’ll get a sort of tea-porridge to cleanse your palate, which is apparently also good for digestion.

Most of their stews use the same rich soup base, but you can choose your toppings and spice level. The stews are done on the milder and sweeter side, even though they’re all a fiery shade of red. You can err on the side of spicy, especially if you’re looking for a little more kick. The soup’s substantial and comforting, just what the doctor ordered for a cold, rainy day.

If you’re a chilli-phobe like me, then go for the sesame soup base (which is also vegetarian) or their Italian-inspired soups. We were wary of the idea of tofu with pasta and tomato sauce at first, but the combination was, surprisingly, not bad at all. There’s no question that traditional stews are more up their alley though.

Craving a bit of savoury, chewy meat in between your mouthfuls of soondubu? The side dishes at SBCD are great additions to your meal, providing some welcome variation in taste and texture. We especially loved their pancakes, which are made to pancake perfection: crisp outside and soft inside. Their LA Galbi Beef is great as well – delightfully chewy and full of sweet and smoky flavours.

Find it at 9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-114, Millenia Walk, Singapore 039596.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Comfort, food, Korean, SBCD Korean Tofu House, Singapore, Stew, Tofu

Lifestyle Others Singapore Singapore

Plan Your Dream Holiday and We’ll Tell You What Food You Are!

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date April 24, 2018
No Comments on Plan Your Dream Holiday and We’ll Tell You What Food You Are!

Like all imaginative foodies, we firmly believe that we all have a dish that matches our personality, that embodies most (if not all) of our qualities in a single delicious bite. There is one problem, though. There are so many weird and wonderful foods in the world, so how are we supposed to know what our spirit dish is? No need to worry, Chope is here with a personality quiz to help you find your culinary soul mate. You’ll even get to plan an amazing trip!

If you’d like to get a bite of your spirit dish, then visit these restaurants and get 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Borscht: Shashlik Restaurant
Spanakopita: Blu Kouzina
Tortilla Espanola: Don Quijote
Tagine: Qasr Grille & Mezze Bar
Tacos al Pastor: Senor Taco

Do you agree with your result? Tell us in the comments section below! Let us know if you’d like to see other dishes featured as well.

Tags Exotic Food, Personality Quiz, Travel

Chope Egg Hunt 2018 Singapore Singapore

[Egg Hunt Hint!] Top Restaurants on Chope Vouchers to score offers from

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date April 23, 2018
No Comments on [Egg Hunt Hint!] Top Restaurants on Chope Vouchers to score offers from

Ever wondered how to get the best restaurant offers around town? We’ll let you in on a secret: make Chope Vouchers your best friend and score discounts at more than 300 restaurants in Singapore!

If you aren’t sure which eatery you should go to first, then a quick look at the shop’s bestsellers is a good place to start.

1. 8 Korean BBQ (Shaw Centre)

Say hello to the crème de la crème of Korean barbeques. 8 Korean BBQ is a carnivore’s paradise, and not just because it’s a barbeque buffet. The restaurant serves up top-quality, premium meats that are unparalleled in flavour and texture. Feast on the rare Mangalitza pork, which is indulgently meaty and flavourful. If you’re more of a beef eater, the Ohmi Wagyu beef will astonish you with its buttery flavour and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Find it at 1 Scotts Road, #04-20/21, Shaw Centre, Singapore 228208.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

2. Atlas Coffeehouse

As the pride and joy of Bukit Timah, Atlas Coffeehouse is one of the most popular venues in the neighbourhood for a weekend brunch, and it’s not hard to see why. Everything from its minimalist lights to its full-length windows exudes chic sophistication, and the food’s pretty darn amazing too. Think hearty breakfast platters and enormous fluffy pancakes, paired with a warm cup of joe. It’s a foolproof recipe for a relaxed weekend morning.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Find it at 6 Duke’s Road, Singapore 268886.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

3. Folklore

Tradition is the heart of the food at Folklore, a restaurant celebrating Singapore’s culinary heritage. Everything is cooked using traditional methods, giving diners an authentic taste of all our local foods. This infuses the food with a myriad of delightful flavours, and a generous dash of love and care to boot. Treat your parents or grandparents to a meal here – they’ll appreciate the meal full of nostalgia and fond memories.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Find it at 700 Beach Road, Level 2, Destination Singapore Beach Road, Singapore 199598.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

4. Chatterbox

30 bucks may seem a lot to pay for a plate of hawker food, but trust us when we say that the Mandarin Chicken Rice at Chatterbox is more than worth it. The restaurant serves all sorts of Singaporean foods, but the chicken rice is simply a cut above the rest. With a heaping pile of tender, juicy meat, a bowl of fragrant, fluffy rice, and soup that’s heartwarming and flavourful, it ticks all our chicken rice boxes.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Find it at 333 Orchard Road Level 5, Mandarin Orchard Hotel Singapore, Singapore 238867.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

5. GRUB

Stuff your face with some hearty all-American grub at this cosy diner in the middle of Bishan Park. With two walls covered in floor-to-ceiling windows and nestled in a field of grass and greenery, the restaurant exudes a casual openness and lets you dine refreshingly close to nature. Their ethically sourced, organic eats are a great hit as well, the quality ingredients making every bite immensely satisfying.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Find it at 510 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1 (Bishan Park 1), Singapore 569983.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

6. Pince & Pints

It’s all about lobsters here at Pince & Pints. This restaurant pays great respect to these crustaceans, taking great care to bring out the natural flavours of their sustainable Atlantic lobsters in every dish. With dishes ranging from the Singapore-inspired Chilli Lobster to punch New England-style flavours, there’s something to please every palate. You can even go purist and get a whole steamed or grilled lobster.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Pince & Pints (Duxton)
Pince & Pints (Katong)

Earn 2X Chope-Dollars when you book a table at these locations:

7. Tea Lounge

Embrace the Colonial lifestyle and indulge in a regal afternoon tea at Tea Lounge, a luxurious space where you can kick back and relax with premium drinks and desserts. The lounge is designed to look like a colonial garden, with potted plants nestled snugly between couches and tables. You can enjoy freshly ground aromatic coffee or fragrant tea blends, and watch the chefs carefully create exquisite and dainty desserts.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Find it at 1 Cuscaden Road, Lobby Level, Regent Singapore, A Four Seasons Hotel, Singapore 249715.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

8. Lokkee

We’ve all heard about America’s Chinese food – eccentric elderly waitresses giving out fortune cookies with cryptic hints that inevitably come true. Now, you can experience it for yourself at Lokkee, which brings Hollywood’s Chinese restaurants to Singapore’s shores. Dig into bowls of chow mien, pineapple beef, and of course the quintessential fortune cookies. This hybrid of Chinese and American cultures gets the balance just right.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Find it at 68 Orchard Road #03-01/02, Plaza Singapura, Singapore 238839.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

9. Garibaldi

Impress your next date with a fancy-schmancy Italian dinner at the Michelin-starred Garibaldi! Chef-Owner Roberto Galetti pulls out all the stops to give you an intimate dining experience you’ll never forget. With fresh produce and a host of traditional recipes, he’ll take you on a journey through the best of Italy. Don’t miss the handmade pasta, which the kitchen has mastered to perfection.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Find it at 36 Purvis Street, #01-02, Singapore 188613.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

10. Vatos Urban Tacos

When the fiery flavours of East and West combine, you know it’s going to turn out well. Vatos Urban Tacos serves up Seoul-Mex fare – a fusion of Korean and Mexican favourites. You won’t be able to stop munching on their addictive Kimchi Carnitas Fries, while their Chimichurri Chicken Tacos will literally set your palate ablaze. Wash everything down with their signature Makgeolitas, made with a mix of tequila, Korean rice wine, beers and ciders.

Want 10% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Find it at 36 Beach Road, #01-03, Singapore 189766.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Before we forget, here’s your next hint for the egg hunt: Chope Voucher’s Bestseller Guide! What are you waiting for? Go forth and hunt!

Tags Bestsellers, Chope Egg Hunt, Chope Vouchers, The Chope Shop

Links We Love Singapore

Weekend Reads: 20 – 22 April

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date April 20, 2018
No Comments on Weekend Reads: 20 – 22 April

Raise a glass to Fridays, and also the massive rosé-themed party coming up in New York! In this Weekend Reads, we’re dying to check out Gordon Ramsay’s new (and improved?) diet, and are bubbling with excitement about the unexpected places you can find bubble tea.

Gordon Ramsay, perhaps the most outspoken anti-vegan chef, is eating his own words: he’s going vegan.

Cr: eatbook.sg

Even cup noodles can get an atas makeover, and the results are nothing if not Instagrammable.

How popular can a mug get? This one garnered almost 90,000 likes on Facebook.

Cr: soulandsoap.co.uk

We’re always craving food, but we can’t always afford the calories. That’s why these food-themed items are exactly what we need!

This high school senior had a great idea for her graduation photos and we’re lovin’ them.

Cr: questmag.com

Get a ticket to the rosé party at Governor’s Island in New York and be tickled pink!

If you’re a huge bubble tea fan (who isn’t?), then you have to try this bubble tea toast.

Meet the wonder woman who’s making waves in the wine industry.

Tags Bath Bombs, bubble tea, Instant Noodle, Singapore, Vegan, Weekend Reads

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Restaurants in Singapore that Go Green!

Post author By Chope
Post date April 20, 2018
1 Comment on Restaurants in Singapore that Go Green!

Earth Day’s just two days away! In commemoration, we’ve collated a list of restaurants in Singapore that go green so you can dine with an ease of mind. If you’re curious about sustainable food, check out this post where you can find delectable and flavourful dishes made with sustainable ingredients!

The Lokal

One visit to The LoKal at Neil Road surprised us – but in a positive way. Apart from providing us with comfort food like the Grilled Mortadella Ciabatta and Crabmeat Pasta, we had our iced drinks served without plastic straws! The staff explained that they were trying to rid of plastic straws, a topic that made headlines in Singapore just last month.

So if you’re looking for a cosy space that offers mouthwatering grub with an environmentally-friendly stance, don’t hesitate to pay them a visit!

Find it at 50 Telok Blangah Road, Bay Hotel Singapore, Singapore 098828.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Carousel

A widely-popular buffet spot and named Best Halal Spot in Chope’s Diner’s Choice Award in 2016 and 2017, Carousel at Royal Plaza on Scotts is famed for its extensive buffet spread ranging from seafood to Asian favourites, and even a massive dessert selection.

What’s even more noteworthy, though, is that they’re recently rolled out an initiative by recycling daily food wastage and converting them into liquid fertiliser. Now that’s impressive.

Find it at 50 Telok Blangah Road, Bay Hotel Singapore, Singapore 098828.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Open Farm Community

Serving up innovative dishes, this innovative restaurant at Dempsey is not just about sustainable dining. With a vision to “strengthen our understanding and respect for food and its origins,” they encourage growing food at spaces like rooftops and sidewalks, in the interim creating a sense of community.

Don’t just settle for their delectable nosh, though. Partake in some of the activities that they regularly organise, which include farming events and recreational activities.

Find it at 50 Telok Blangah Road, Bay Hotel Singapore, Singapore 098828.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

HRVST

Cr: Kilter Avenue

As part of Kilter Avenue which also comprises of a bar and a gym, this three-in-one space at Shenton Way is one to look out for. Advocating for a healthy lifestyle outside the confines of an office’s four-walls, they’re on a mission to “promote food for the gut, drinks from the heart, and movement that changes the mind”.

To do that, they’ve established their own sustainable garden, and even encourages people to go vegan three times a week to help combat animal abuse, world hunger, energy consumption, and even water wastage. The Chefs themselves are even vegan, and have both worked at restaurants like Tippling Club, Esquina, and Cheek by Jowl!

Fitness, mouthwatering food, and helping the environment at the same time? Sign us up!

Find it at 6A Shenton Way, OUE Downtown Gallery, #05-01, 068815.

Mahota Commune

Cr: Mahota Commune

Seeking to blur the lines and bring man and nature closer together, Mahota Commune is a sleek all-in-one restaurant, cafe, and grocery store. By decorating with plants and utilising eco materials, it seeks to “show how our food and consumption choices affect the world we live in.”

Their menu, which includes dishes like the Crab Meat Pumpkin Capellini and Garlic Duck Leg Confit, are even annotated by whether they are Vegetarian, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Egg Free, Sugar-Free, or Nut Free!

Find it at 809 French Road, Level 3, Kitchener Complex, 200809

Tags Go Green, Singapore, Sustainability, Sustainable Dining

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

How to Order Kopi Like a Pro

Post author By Averlynn Lim
Post date April 18, 2018
1 Comment on How to Order Kopi Like a Pro

Understanding coffee shop lingo is no easy feat, especially with the barrage of terms available to customize your cup of joe. In this article, we break down the common kopitiam lingo for you so that the next time you’re at a coffee shop, you can order like a true blue Singaporean!

TYPES OF COFFEE
Kopi O	‘Kopi’ means ‘coffee’, and ‘O’ translates to no milk. Therefore, Kopi O is black coffee served with sugar.
Kopi C	Coffee made with evaporated milk and sugar.
Kopi	Coffee made with condensed milk.

OTHER TERMS
Kosong	No sugar
Siew Dai	Less sugar/sweet
Gah Dai	More sugar/sweet
Peng	Iced. You can add this suffix to any of the terms above to get your beverage with ice/cold. For example, a black coffee without sugar and with ice will be Kopi O Kosong Peng.
Pua Sio	Literally translates to 半烧 (half warm). Some of the hot water is replaced with room temperature water to give you a lukewarm beverage that’s ideal for drinking.
Gao	Thick coffee. The coffee they serve at coffee shops is usually diluted with some hot water before serving. To get a stronger dose of coffee with less water, order it gao.
Po	Thin coffee. If you want to hold on the caffeine, order it po, where more water is added to dilute the coffee.
Di Lo	Extra Thick coffee. This gets you coffee poured straight from the metal kettle, without any dilution.
Sua	Get a double order of the same beverage.
Dabao / Bao	Get your beverage as a takeaway.

Prefer tea? Replace ‘Kopi’ with ‘Teh’. Mix and match the above terms to customize your coffee/tea! Some examples:

1. Kopi C Gao Siew Dai = Strong/Thick Coffee + Evaporated Milk + Less sugar
2. Teh O Kosong Peng = Tea + No milk + No Sugar + Ice
3. Kopi Po Gah Dai = Thin Coffee + Extra Condensed Milk
4. Teh Peng Dabao = Tea + Condensed Milk + Ice + Takeaway
5. Teh C Siew Dai Pua Sio Dabao = Tea + Carnation Milk + Less Sugar + Lukewarm + Takeaway

Milo Dinosaur
Cr: TimeOut

OTHER COMMON BEVERAGES
Milo / Tak Kiu	A powdered chocolate malt beverage made with condensed milk and water. Tak Kiu is Hokkien for “kicking a ball”, and this describes the packaging of a Milo tin.
Milo Kosong	Hot milo without milk and sugar.
Milo Dinosaur	Iced milo with an additional scoop of milo powder on the top.
Teh / Kopi Tarik	Tea/Coffee with condensed milk, pulled back and forth to create a frothy top. This process helps to perfectly incorporate the milk into the tea/coffee, giving the drink a better flavour. It also helps to cool the beverage down to an optimal drinking temperature.
Teh Halia	Tea with condensed milk and ginger. The added ginger gives the tea a tinge of spiciness.
Yuan Yang	Kopi + Teh. A harmony of coffee and tea to give you the best of both worlds.
Kopi/Teh Cino	Milk with a layer of tea or coffee on top. Kopi/Teh is made the normal way and layered on top of hot milk to give you an extra milky beverage.
Diao He	Chinese tea. The term literally translates to ‘fishing’, similar to how one dips a tea bag into hot water to make tea.
Michael Jackson	Freshly brewed soya bean milk with grass jelly.

Now that you’ve gotten a crash course on coffee shop lingo, you are all set to conquer the kopitiams of Singapore with your new-found knowledge. Sharing is caring; don’t forget to share this guide with your friends, and bookmark this page for future reference!

Where should I get my ‘kopi‘ fix?

Prive ACM is a classy joint that looks just like your run-of-the-mill coffee shop (albeit a very well-kept one), but you won’t see any kopitiam uncles here! Chill on the banks of the Singapore River and sip your favourite coffee while chowing down on comforting local and western meals.

Find it at 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Peranakan delights aren’t the only thing you’ll find at the National Kitchen by Violet Oon. After all, a restaurant dedicated to Singapore’s cuisine wouldn’t be complete without our favourite coffee shop drinks. Celebrate Singapore’s culture with the unique flavours of Peranakan and Eurasian cuisine, all with a cup of kopi.

Find it at 1 St Andrews Road, #02-01, Singapore 178957.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Pssst… if you’re still craving for more caffeine, then you have to check out our Ultimate Coffee Guide where we dish out some of the best cafes in Singapore with absolutely delicious grub and thirst quenchers.

Tags Coffee, Kopi, Kopitiam, Lingo, Singapore

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Clean, Green, and Irresistible: Sustainable Restaurants for the Ethical Diner

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date April 17, 2018
No Comments on Clean, Green, and Irresistible: Sustainable Restaurants for the Ethical Diner

As we become more aware of the ethical issues surrounding unsustainable food sources, even the simple joy of eating becomes fraught with worry. Thankfully, it’s not just diners that want to save the Earth – restaurants do, too!

Ease your conscience and feast in peace at these restaurants using sustainable foods and local produce that’s farm-fresh, delicious, and eco-friendly.

Rumah Rasa

Indonesian food has always been a favourite among Singaporeans. Filled with fragrant herbs, piquant spices, rich coconut milk, and decadent gula melaka, it’s an immensely satisfying meal. Rumah Rasa takes all that goodness and brings it a step higher with their focus on sustainable dining and bringing fresh, delicious ingredients to your plate. Many of the herbs and spices used in their homestyle dishes, like kaffir lime, pandan leaves, galangal, and chillies, can be found in their rooftop garden so you can be sure you’re only getting authentic, traditional flavours that all Indonesians know and love.

Find it at 50 Telok Blangah Road, Bay Hotel Singapore, Singapore 098828.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Open Door Policy

One of the most accommodating restaurants in Singapore, Open Door Policy is dedicated to doing right by both nature and ourselves by serving healthy, dairy and gluten free foods grown in their own urban farms. We know that the words “dairy and gluten free” have probably sent you running, but stop right there! The food at Open Door Policy is lip-smackingly amazing, even without our beloved butter and cream. You’ll be in for a unique dining experience as well, with rows of herbs and veggies lining every vertical surface available in their bistro. With food that’s yummy, healthy, and eco-friendly all at once, there’s no reason for you not to drop by.

Find it at 19 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 169650.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Open Farm Community

When was the last time you saw your food alive and growing in a garden? Open Farm Community, a restaurant, urban farmland, and horticultural hub rolled into one, reconnects diners with what they eat. Featuring a thriving edible garden outside and an open kitchen inside, you’ll see the journey of vegetables and produce, starting from growing in the soil to being harvested and prepared in the kitchen, and finally served on your plate. Your taste buds will reap the rewards of farm-to-table dining as well. Everything tastes so bright and vibrant that your supermarket groceries will never be the same again!

Find it at 130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Artichoke

You can’t visit Artichoke without bringing along a hungry pack of friends. This funky restaurant, full of life and joy, serves up staggering artisanal communal plates inspired by Greek, Moroccan, and Turkish cultures. Imagine hearty, family-sized platters of meats, dips, and salads full of Middle Eastern flavours, but with innovative twists to keep things interesting. They’re huge fans of sustainable food sources, changing their menu seasonally to keep up with nature. A third of their ingredients are from local farms, and they’ve got a herb garden out the back as well.

Find it at 161 Middle Road, Singapore 188978.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Verde Kitchen

The newest eco-friendly kid on the block, Verde Kitchen is dedicated to serving real food full of natural flavours. Almost all of their food is prepared from scratch every day. Their menu also includes gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and raw food options – suitable for any diet plan. Sustainably-sourced fish, organic free-range chicken, and locally-grown produce fill the plates of bellies of diners, the quality ingredients elevating every dish. Their wholesome take on dining ensures that everything you eat will be good for your body, good for Mother Earth, and most importantly, delightful for your palate.

If you’d like more details about Verde Kitchen, check out this blog post where we tell you all about their amazing food!

Find it at 581 Orchard Road, Level 2, Hilton Singapore, Singapore 238883.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Afterglow

How do you like your veggies: stir-fried, baked, or raw? Afterglow brings eating and dining back to its roots, with a vegan menu that’s filled mostly with raw foods. Livestock deals the most damage to the environment, so by cutting meat from their menu and preparing plant-based meals that are vibrant and full of flavour, they’re making a huge impact on the environment. The Deconstructed Sushi Bowl is a healthy and wholesome favourite, while Raw Salted Caramel Fudge is rich and decadent despite containing no dairy. It’s surprising how satisfying vegan food can be!

Find it at 24 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089131.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Poison Ivy Bistro

Cr: happyhappymaruko.blogspot.sg

It’s not every day we get to see what Singapore was like in its kampong era, so a visit to the farm-to-table Poison Ivy Bistro is nothing less than a nostalgic journey back to simpler times. Seated in a rustic, old-school building nestled in a 10-acre farm, you’ll be served comforting local foods like nasi lemak and laksa. Most of their vegetables are organic and straight from the sprawling farm, while the fish is locally farmed. Even the laksa noodles are handmade by the chef, intensifying the heartwarming home-cooked vibes. Take the chance to stroll through the farm, see hundreds of everyday veggies, and breathe in the refreshing farm air.

Find it at 100 Neo Tiew Rd, Singapore 719026.
Click here for more information on Poison Ivy Bistro.

JAAN

Cr: epicureasia.com

This Michelin-starred restaurant combines sophisticated modern European fare with the charm of classic comfort food, presenting diners with exquisite dishes that are at once hearty, satisfying, and refined. Seasonal menus bring out the best of premium ingredients, creating distinctive flavours and textures that are a delight to eat. Head Chef Kirk Westaway is an avid champion of sustainable dining as well. His kitchen uses sustainable rainbow trout, sea bass and grouper. He also uses organic herbs from the garden shared by Fairmont Singapore and Swissotel The Stamford.

Find it at 2 Stamford Road, Level 70, Equinox Complex, 178882.
Click here for more information of JAAN.

Tags Earth Day, Singapore, Sustainability, Vegan, Vegetarian

Chope Egg Hunt 2018 Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

[Egg Hunt Hint!] 12 Must-Try Restaurants in Vivocity

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date April 16, 2018
4 Comments on [Egg Hunt Hint!] 12 Must-Try Restaurants in Vivocity

As the biggest mall in Singapore, you can be sure that you won’t go hungry after a day’s shopping spree at Vivocity! From the most tantalising Japanese grills to exquisite Chinese creations, check out these 12 restaurants that are at the ready to satisfy your stomachs.

Brotzeit

Stepping into this restaurant is akin to getting a big hug; the warm lighting and cosy ambience draw you in and the next thing you know, you’re settling in and enjoying a good, tall glass of Deutsche bier. And don’t worry if you aren’t particularly well versed in beer: their menu has a Beer Taste Chart that allows you to choose based on your preferences, so you’re in good hands.

Try their Fleischbällchen (mini beef-pork meatballs) or Gebackene Schwammerl (Fried Mushrooms), both irresistibly finger-licking good. For sharing, the Wunderplatte (good for 6) is a sure winner if you can’t choose among their selection of sausages and meats. We wouldn’t hold it against you if you want to tackle their Crispy Oven Roasted Pork Knuckle solo either – it’s rendered so crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, it’s almost impossible to resist!

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-149, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Jamie’s Italian

At Jamie’s, not only will you enjoy a fabulous (and sustainably sourced) menu of Italian eats from a world-famous chef, but the VivoCity location also boasts a crowd-pleasing live pasta bar in addition to stunning views of Sentosa from the main dining area. Soak in that beautiful trattoria ambience without leaving the mall, and tuck into an extensive array of quality bites like the daily house-made pasta, succulent grilled dishes or hearty vegetable sharing ‘planks’. With kids menus and plenty of veggie & fish options Jamie’s caters to a variety of palates, so don’t worry about bringing any fussy eaters along.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-165/167, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Crystal Jade Jiang Nan Vivocity

Taste the very best of Jiang Nan, an understated region south of Yangtze River where its cuisine is skillfully crafted and carry delicate flavours. While there may be no lack of Chinese food in Singapore, Crystal Jade Jiang Nan brings a touch of uniqueness to the table. Diners sing praises of their intensely fragrant Deep Fried Pork Ribs. Those looking for a healthy respite from the usual stir-fries will love the delicious yet nutritious Double-boiled Chicken Soup. Last but not least, their Pan Fried Shanghai Pork Buns are must-haves before you wrap up the meal.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-52, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Dancing Crab

If you’re looking for a soulful seafood kick to sit back and dig into, Dancing Crab on the top floor is a top-notch pick. They’ve earned their spot as one of the most reputable country-style Cajun culinary masters in S’pore, with a huge variety of spicy combo bags, fried seafood, hearty gumbos, and more. Indulgent? Maybe just a bit, but you’ll have done so much mall power-walking that you will have more than earned a feast this epic.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #03-10, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

JPOT

From the brains behind JUMBO group comes JPOT, an establishment that redefines the classic hot pot (or steamboat). If you prefer having your own hot pot and not digging through a communal one, this is the spot for you. Enjoy your individual pot with contemporary soup bases such as Fish Head and Bak Kut Teh (that’s right, they have BKT people!) alongside fresh steamboat ingredients.

Since JPOT’s from JUMBO, you know the seafood here’s going to be excellent. From firm fish slices to gleaming prawns, trust that introducing these hot pot additions will leave your broth tasting even better. On top of that, pamper yourselves with luxurious ingredients such as Kurobuta Pork and Wagyu Beef. Pro tip: instead of your usual rice or noodles, skip the carbs and go for the Fish Noodles option instead.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-53, VivoCity (Lobby F), Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tunglok Signatures

It’s time to treat yourself to a fine Chinese dining feast after a long day’s ~~work~~ shopping. Tunglok Signatures serves up a detailed menu with variations of Chinese cuisine. From Canton to Shanghai, Sichuan and back to modern-day Singapore, you can pick and choose from a variety of flavourful dishes that highlight the best of the regions, without leaving VivoCity.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-57, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Bakerzin

This household name is one of the pioneers who introduced the wonders of oozy warm chocolate cakes and rich soufflés to Singapore. While they’re known for their luscious cakes and baked goods, Bakerzin also offer stunning cafe nosh that will have your mouth watering in no time!

If we could sum up the dishes served at Bakerzin in three words, it would be comforting, familiar, and delicious. Tired after a day’s shopping? Retire to this relaxing spot and tuck into their Seafood Pasta that holds the treasures of the ocean or their hefty Signature Burger. Round off the meal with top-notch desserts and a good cuppa joe – we can’t think of anything better, really.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-207, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

The Chop House

Meat is the focus at The Chop House, and boy do they do it well. You can expect expertly grilled cuts of imported meat, at a fraction of the price you’d pay at fancy steakhouses. They place equal emphasis on quality beer (as do we), from bottled craft brews to boutique brands on tap that you actually serve yourself and pay by mmillilitre– a method that embodies the cool and casual vibe of the joint. Tuck in and dine at the waterfront al fresco tables, or get more intimate in the chic interior. When the food is this good for such great value, we promise you’ll leave satisfied and refuelled.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-161, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Shin Kushiya

From wallet-friendly conveyour-belt sushi to opulent omakase, you can probably find all types of Japanese cuisines in Singapore. But if you want something simple and authentic, Shin Kushiya is your best bet. The interiors here are minimalistic and the presentation of food is clean and straightforward, so you know that Shin Kushiya means business – no frills and all flavour.

As one of the first Japanese restaurants to introduce the Kushiyaki dining concept in Singapore, you’d be missing out if you didn’t go for their signature Kushiyaki. With over 50 different types to choose from, there’s no denying that these tantalising sticks made from fresh and quality seafood, meat, and vegetables are sure winners. Diners can also choose from the usual selections such as sashimi, sushi, donburi, and more. It’s also worth a mention that Shin Kushiya uses imported Bincho Charcoal from Japan that’s known for the clean-charcoal smokiness it imparts to food during grilling.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #02-120, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Soup Restaurant

Cr: Eatbook.sg

For food just like Grandma made (and isn’t that a relaxing feeling after a shopping spree?), Soup Restaurant has our vote. They’ve been cooking up authentic ‘Singapore Chinatown Heritage’ cuisine since their humble beginnings in 1991, and have since grown to over 15 branches across Southeast Asia. They’ve still managed to retain that home-cooked feel and taste, with warming double-boiled soups, deliciously marinated meats and tofu, and stir-fried veggies.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #02-141, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Click here for more information on Tajimaya Yakiniku.

Tajimaya Yakiniku

***Cr:* *SG Magazine***

If Tajimaya’s quality grills with a gorgeous panoramic view of Sentosa Island is not enough to convince you, then we don’t know what will. This gorgeous spot allows diners to grill their own meats at the table, having full control over how they prefer them.

Deck your tables with the tantalising seafood, or splash out on delectable Kurobuta Pork and luxurious Wagyu beef selections. Whichever way you fancy, Tajimaya makes sure that you’re in for a treat. Plus, their high tech exhaust systems also ensure that you won’t be leaving Tajimaya smelling like your food either. The best things to go with your grills are sake and shochu; here, you get both of the finest quality that will appease any true yakiniku connoisseur.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk #01-102/103 Vivocity, Singapore 098585
Click here for more information on Tajimaya Yakiniku.

Barrio by Mex Out

Put on your sombreros because it’s time to salsa! The chilled out vibes at the spacious Barrio by Mex Out makes it the perfect place to rendezvous with your closest friends and have a good time.

If the ambience isn’t enough to tempt you, their food certainly will. Kick things off with a bang when you order their cheese-filled Jalapeno Poppers or whet your appetite with the refreshing Prawn Ceviche. From tacos to burritos, the mains at Barrio do not disappoint either; but if you need help deciding, you can’t go wrong with their Taco Fiesta where you get 10 tacos on one platter.

Find it at #01-116 Vivo City, 1 Harbourfront Walk, Singapore 098585
Click here for more information on Barrio by Mex Out.

Ready for another round of promo codes? It’s time to scour for your hidden eggs in 10 of the restaurants listed on our new Sentosa Guide!

Tags Guides, Harbourfront, Singapore, Vivocity

Events Features Interviews Singapore Singapore

In The Pantry: Chef Raymond Blanc’s Homecoming

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date April 13, 2018
No Comments on In The Pantry: Chef Raymond Blanc’s Homecoming

The incredible Chef Raymond Blanc is finally back in Singapore! Catch him at this year’s World Gourmet Summit to see him in action. Before that, check out our interview with him to find out his recipe for success, his favourite meal, and his ultimate guilty pleasure.

It’s been more than a decade since you were last in Singapore to be a part of the World Gourmet Summit 2018. What brings you back, and what do you look forward to the most?

True, it’s been over a decade that I was last at The World Gourmet Summit. Actually, I was the first chef to launch it with the wonderful Peter Knipp (former Group Executive Head Chef at Raffles and now the organiser of the WGS & Peter Knipp Holdings).

What brings me back officially to The World Gourmet Summit is the opportunity to cook and show some of my latest dishes from Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons to a select audience. I’ll also create a wonderful evening of food, friendship, and art de vivre.

On a more personal note, I have been back a number of times to Singapore and other countries in South East Asia for leisure, such as visiting friends and for a holiday to enjoy this beautiful part of the world. I love the food scene in Singapore so I look forward to visiting many of the Singaporean hawker foods. My first encounter with street food in South East Asia was in Singapore, which is why I have a fondness for them. Some of the places I visit are Senoko fishery, Tekka Wet Market, and Geylang Serai Wet Market.

I also long to revisit the Singapore Botanic Gardens where I cooked last summer with my partners Kenwood and created an extraordinary moment for the gardeners. As I love gardens, the National Orchid garden will also be on my list. If I have enough time I would love to visit the cloud forest! Having said that, I would love to see China Town too.

Behind every successful restaurant is a team working together and producing great food. What do you think is the best way to motivate a team?
First, you need to have a very powerful vision and philosophy, not only on the expression of your own food but also how and where the food will be served which will define the ambience of the restaurant. Mine is based on seasonality, the nobility, freshness of the produce, and to teach young chefs the importance of provenance as well as management of waste.

This vision should be supported by strong training, an induction program, reviews and appraisals. At all times, budding chefs should be supported, nurtured, and guided so they gain confidence, both in their craft and their personality. I have trained around 40 Michelin-starred chefs. Here at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, we are a school of thought.

Throughout the course of your career, do you think that the culinary world has evolved? How different is it now as compared to before when you were a budding chef yourself?
All businesses – whether it is technology, fashion, or hospitality – will always change and evolve. It will change according to what the modern consumer wants. I strongly believe that today’s modern guest is knowledgeable, well-travelled, and embraces responsible luxury.

Great leaders are always reinventing their cuisine: Marie-Antoine Carême; then Vincent La Chapelle; then Auguste Escoffier; after him was Michel Guérard who catapulted nouvelle cuisine; followed by Feran Adriá who took the mantle of gastronomy through the medium of molecular gastronomy. Then there was a big bang of fusion cuisine which was a complete mix of cultures and was misunderstood. Now, I think it is the most interesting development of cuisine. It is driven by modernity, the provenance of the produce, and bags of creativity.

Today, there are now so many extraordinary young chefs who are driven by their expression from both their local values and from across the world – it really is an exciting moment. Take London for example, where it now has more than 350 languages and dialects. The mosaic of these different cuisines is just as complex.

Thinking smarter, being creative; it’s something many people struggle with. What advice would you give them in order to achieve that?
The advice that I would give to any young person is to first embrace your own culture, learn it, nurture it, and develop it. At all times be curious, open your mind, your eyes, your heart, your intuition. Then, you can enrich your own culture with other peoples’ culture. My cuisine is very much an expression of that.

As a Frenchman, I know who I am. But I also have enriched my own culture through my travels around the world where I introduced new tastes, new textures, and new techniques which have enriched me without confusing my own identity. This means you will see a lot of nuances of flavours weaved into my creations, especially South East Asian.

What’s the one quality that you think a chef should have in order to succeed?
Talent and passion alone will never be enough to bring you success. There are a number of qualities that are key; strong work ethics, the constant reappraisal of your own work, total curiosity, openness to new ideas, and working as a team.

How do you come up with new recipes? Do you prefer to start with the basics or do you improvise?
Often ideas are intuitive rather than starting with the basics.

For example, morels are in season and a beautiful little dish of the first morels with the first tender spring vegetables will be the base of a new dish.

Singapore has long been a very strong influence in my creativity and I use many of your spices and herbs to create many dishes, including a crab and coconut or ravioli of exotic fruit which I will be serving at this year’s summit on Wednesday 25^th April.

What is your favourite home-cooked meal for the family?
When I return to my home in France, my 95-year-old mum, the formidable Maman Blanc, knows exactly what I love.

There will be crudités which are grated vegetables from the garden with different dressings; a beautiful plump, roasted farm chicken with its own juices; garlic sautéed potatoes; and of course, Comté cheese. To round up the meal is my all-time favourite île flottante, a dessert of soaked biscuits in kirsch syrup topped with vanilla cream, poached meringue, and threaded crackling caramel.

What’s currently your most exciting new dish or ingredient and why?
We are currently developing a number of dishes. The morels which I mentioned earlier is one that we’re excited about. We’re also working on a study of different cured cuts of salmon with different herbs which will provide a colourful, fresh, spring palette as well as different flavours. We are also revisiting my former café crème dessert to make it lighter.

What’s the one ingredient and one kitchen tool you must have in your pantry?
I am a Frenchman, so garlic of course! But I could easily think of another 60 ingredients such as the best extra virgin olive oil, French mustard, spices, dried pulses, and many more.

What is one thing about you that no one knows about?
I couldn’t possibly say! It would spoil it… but perhaps, something that people don’t usually know is that I have an honorary OBE, given by Her Majesty The Queen, from the French Government, the Legion d’Honneur, which is highest French order of merit. Essentially, I am a Knight without a white horse! It is very rare to be awarded both, but I’m a very privileged and grateful man… oh, and I love dark chocolate KitKats. Don’t tell too many people!

Get your tickets today to catch Chef Raymond Blanc as whips up a legendary lavish meal for diners at the Grand Hyatt. Don’t miss the chance to catch one of the world’s most respected chefs in action!

Tags Chope, Raymond Blanc, Singapore, WGS, World Gourmet Summit 2018

1. Tom Yum Seafood Pasta from 49 Seats

2. Zucca Fettucini or Broccolini Pesto from Original Sin

3. “Bak Chor Mee” from Labyrinth

4. Buah Keluak Noodle by National Kitchen by Violet Oon

Cr: Eatbook.sg

5. Cereal Prawn Pasta from Atlas Coffeehouse

6. Salmon Mentaiko Bao or Chilli Crab Bao from Bao Makers x Butler’s Steakbar

Cr: Marchh.com

7. Mac and Cheese Burger from The Beast

8. Swordfish Burger or Bleu Cheese Burger from The Market Grill

9. Pulled Pork Burger or Prime Beef Burger with Foie Gras from Two Blur Guys

Cr: bustle.com

Cr: elitedaily.com

Cr: inpathybulletin.com

ATLAS

Cr: robbreport.com.sg

Cr: rockabitebaby.com

Venue by Sebastian

Cr: lifestyleasia.com

Wild Rocket

Cr: cntraveler.com

Cr: eatbook.sg

Cr: soulandsoap.co.uk

Cr: questmag.com

HRVST

Cr: Kilter Avenue

Cr: Mahota Commune

Milo Dinosaur Cr: TimeOut

Where should I get my ‘kopi‘ fix?

Cr: happyhappymaruko.blogspot.sg

Cr: epicureasia.com

Cr: Eatbook.sg

Cr: SG Magazine

**6. Salmon Mentaiko Bao or Chilli Crab Bao from Bao Makers x Butler’s Steakbar**

Milo Dinosaur
Cr: TimeOut

***Cr:* *SG Magazine***